They’re the first things to get lost. Aside from our keys. And a pair of matching socks. Actually, where did we set that cup of coffee? Okay, so maybe our sunglasses aren’t the first things that get misplaced, but they’re going to get lost. One of the most common Mom Truths is that you’ll find yourself digging through a purse or diaper bag for your sunnies often and it’s so frustrating. It doesn’t help when they also happen to be really expensive. We’re not here to tell you what to do, but cheap sunglasses don’t have to look cheap and they help prevent a full-scale panic when you can’t find them.
Sticky hands. Jump hugs. Getting stuck in your hair. There are 500 ways mom sunglasses get ruined, or at least get a little beat up. That’s why it’s hard for us to also spend $500 on them; at least not while our kiddos are still small. There’s just too much going on to keep your sunnies safe. The good news? We found some seriously adorable glasses—all $25 or under, all available online—to get you through the sunny months. At these prices, you can also snag a pair for the car, your purse, for the backyard—wherever you find yourself struggling to find that lost pair. Check them all out below.
Myiaur Polarized Sunglasses
Myiaur/Amazon
Mirrored lenses always give cool mom vibes, and these are available in a bunch of different colors. And yes, they're slightly more than $25 but they're well worth the extra $2.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Once you’ve finally mastered the milk-feeding routine, it’s on to adventures in solid foods. You’ll start with your baby exploring mashed bananas, nibbling on tender chicken, and sampling some applesauce, but then they’ll be hungry for a more consistent schedule—complete with between-meal bites. And let’s face it, kids quickly develop a knack for sniffing out snacks. While homemade options or mini-meals are ideal, there are times when you’re just too busy and lean on more convenient options. Whether you’re prepping your tot for daycare or packing up the diaper bag for a day at the park, having packaged baby snacks on standby is a must for your pantry (and your sanity!).
Finding boxed and bagged snacks for babies can be a challenge since they can’t eat just anything. As a dietitian mom, I try to be mindful of textures, sugar, and salt content, and it can be a struggle to find options that tick all those boxes. But don’t stress, we’ve done the work for you, so instead of endlessly scrolling the web, you can actually savor a few more sips of your reheated coffee. Here are some of my favorite packaged baby snacks.
Baby snacks for 6-12 months:
Bamba Peanut Butter Puffs
Gratify
These puffs are the OG for introducing peanuts as a potential allergen to your baby. They’re made with a few simple ingredients and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that infants adore. Plus, they’re the perfect size for little hands and encourage self-feeding. Though they have a bit of added salt, I stick to a handful for young babies and only really offer them for allergen exposure.
Little Bellies Organic Pick-Me Sticks
Baby Bellies
If you’re excited for your baby to feed themselves, you can encourage them with these fantastic puffed corn snacks. Their size and shape are just right for tiny hands, especially for babies still mastering their palmar grasp. The meltable sticks are suitable for ages 7 months and older and are sugar-free, salt-free, and organic.
Amara Smoothie Melts
Amara
These cute meltables are like tiny smoothies that dissolve on your baby’s tongue. They’re perfect for little ones aged 10 months and up who are getting the hang of the pincer grasp, that cool trick of picking up small things between the thumb and index finger. They’re loaded with fruit, veggies, and coconut milk, and are free from added sugar. They’re also packed in resealable bags, making them super convenient to take on the go.
Fage Total 5% Greek Yogurt
Fage
If there’s one thing I’d splurge on, it’s these yogurts. My kids can’t get enough of them! Unlike some other plain Greek yogurt varieties that can be a bit tangy, this one is incredibly creamy and smooth, without any tartness. And the best part? It’s loaded with 14 grams of protein per serving! I serve it on its own, mixed with fruit, or blended into smoothies for that dreamy creamy texture. These single-serving portions are the perfect grab-and-go option for busy days (just remember to toss them into an insulated lunch bag to keep them cool).
Kekoa Foods Pouches
Kekoa
If you’re eager to introduce your baby to a world of flavors, give these Kekoa Foods pouches a try. I love that they offer unique blends like curry vegetable mango, apple and ginger, and mango paprika, perfect for broadening your baby’s palate while you’re out and about. They’re organic, free from added sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and definitely get our seal of approval!
These nutrient-dense bars are loaded with all the good stuff, minus the added sugar. They’re available in a variety of yummy flavors like carrot-date, strawberry-beet, and apple-kale, and made with ingredients like sunflower seed butter, oats, fruits, and vegetables. Plus, they’re Clean Label certified, organic, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free for extra peace of mind.
Once Upon A Farm Tractor Wheels
Once Upon A Farm
What could be more fun than a soft-baked bar shaped like a tractor wheel? These oat-based snacks are sweetened with fruit and baked with a mix of fruits and veggies. Each ‘wheel’ packs in 3 grams of fiber, which can be especially handy if you have a little one who’s struggling in the bathroom department.
Serenity Kids Grain-Free Puffs
Serenity Kids
You know those times when you just need to occupy your kid for 20 minutes while you whip up dinner (or finally get to sit down for the first time in hours)? These bite-sized puffs will do just the trick. Kids love their irresistibly cheesy flavor, which makes them even more willing to practice putting their wee fingers into a pincer grasp. These puffs are gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, and completely free from added sugar. Bonus: They pack 1 gram of protein per serving, giving you some precious hanger-free moments until dinner hits the table.
Once Upon A Farm Organic Dairy-Free Smoothie Pouches
Once Upon A Farm
These are the ultimate pouches because they contain a perfect balance of nutrition, packing 3 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving. Made from whole-food ingredients like fruits, veggies, coconut milk, and pumpkin seeds, they’re are organic, free from added sugar, and incredibly convenient to toss into an insulated lunchbox. Yummy for kiddos under 12 months, too!
Happy Wolf Bars
Happy Wolf
In my home, these bars disappear within minutes. Sweetened with dates and honey, they’re a delightful blend of oats, sunflower seed butter, and pumpkin seed butter. They’re also allergen-free, so my kids can safely take them to school or playdates. And with 3 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber in each bar, they keep my brood happy between meals. Just a heads up: these bars contain honey, so make sure you’re offering them to kiddos aged 12 months and older.
When you’re stuck waiting somewhere—for the doctor, in line at the DMV, on the subway, or just for brunch—keeping an energetic little one occupied can be a major challenge. Have no fear. We’ve got a list of awesome, do-almost-anywhere activities that will keep you and your baby busy and keep waiting room crankiness at bay. Try a couple, and watch the minutes fly by.
Copy Cat
Mimic the sounds your baby makes—coos and ba-ba-bas—mixing it up by stretching them out a little. Try making a few funny faces, and watch as your baby pushes her lips to copy your fishy face. With older babies, you can add in gestures and body movements like lifting your arms, clapping, nodding your head from side to side, or stomping your feet.
Peek-a-Boo
This classic gets extra special from a kiddo’s perspective if you just toss a blanket over your head and wait for your baby to pull it off. Or, when traditional peek-a-boo gets old, try hiding a toy instead. Grab a stuffed animal, hide it behind your back or under a blanket, and see if your little one can find it.
Crinkle Crinkle Paper Ball
Paper’s available pretty much anywhere, from the placemat at a restaurant to the paper cover on the exam bed at the doctor’s office. Hand that good stuff over to your little one to crunch, crinkle, and rip to shreds. You can even scrunch it up to make a ball that you two can toss back and forth.
It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s a Flying Baby
Bounce that baby up into the air and swoop her around. Add in a few spins and you’ve got your own mama-powered thrill ride. Flying babies are happy babies.
What’s in the Bag?
Textures are fascinating for little ones, especially when they’re unseen. Find a small bag or an empty tissue box, slip different objects inside (soft fabric, a sippy cup, a spoon, smooth rocks, a teething ring), and let your baby reach in to explore the invisible wonder.
Photo Credit: Oz Spies
Ice Ice Baby
The next time you’re waiting in a restaurant, try this: dip a spoon into your water, and scoop out an ice cube. Put it on the table in front of your kiddo. Watch her fascination as she touches and tries to catch the slippery wonder.
Build and Crash
Stack up a few things and encourage your baby to stomp (or crawl) over, Godzilla-style, and tip them to the ground. A tissue box plus cotton balls at the doctor’s office, a stack of board books, plastic spoons—anything that can balance precariously for a few moments and then tumble to the ground is great fun for little ones.
Nursery Rhymes
Great for literacy development, there’s a reason they’ve never gone out of style. Sing a little Itsy Bitsy Spider with your best preschool teacher-style enthusiasm. If you don’t know the hand motions that go along with the nursery rhymes or want to learn a few new ones, check out this resource created by librarians.
Dip into Your Bag of Tricks
A small container of bubbles can take you far if you’re outside and waiting around – keeping one in your diaper bag means you’ll always be prepared for fun. Cheerios, when handed out one at a time, give your kiddo a chance to work on fine motor skills and extend interest longer than handing over a full snack container. You can even create a new challenge by slipping a single Cheerio inside of or underneath a clear baby bottle cap and asking your baby to retrieve it. And now’s the time to pull out anything that makes noise—if you have a small music-making toy that drives you nuts at home, keep it in your diaper bag to pull out when you’re on the go.
Watching the World Go By
Furry creatures are endlessly fascinating. If you’re stuck somewhere with a window, peek out the window and hunt for dogs or cats. Or try counting trucks as they drive past. Your enthusiasm is what will make this one: if you exclaim with fascination about the animals or vehicles you see out there, there’s a good chance your baby will get on board.
Funny Stuff
If all else fails, put a shoe on your head. Find something random, pretend it’s a hat, and do your best Three Stooges-style pratfalls. Toddlers are sure to dissolve into giggles.
Make sure to capture all the silly moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a parent who isn’t a fan of Costco snacks, especially one who makes school lunches every day (they don’t warn you about that in baby classes!). In recent years, Costco has become the go-to place for healthy snacks in bulk. Need some shelf-stable lunch box options? Check! How about energizing, convenient goodies for after soccer practice? Check!
As a pediatric dietitian, I’m always on the hunt for snacks with simple ingredients and minimal amounts of processed sugar. Luckily, Costco carries a variety of nutritious packaged options that fit the bill (some containing nuts, so be sure to skip these if schools or extracurriculars prohibit them). Here are some of my favorites.
These dried fruit bars have only two ingredients (dried fruit!) and zero added sugar. Pair them with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a balanced, energizing, and tasty snack. That’s It Mini Fruit Bars ($15.99)—Buy Here!
Do your kids always come home from school with a cold? You’re in luck! Apples are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system. What’s more, these pouches are a convenient and shelf-stable travel snack, easy to keep in your purse or diaper bag. Kirkland Organic Applesauce Pouches ($12.99)—Buy Here!
Peanuts, almonds, and cashews, oh my! These individually packaged nuts are a healthy source of protein and fat. For an energizing snack that’s sure to fuel your kiddos, nuts pair well with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt. Just remember not to give whole nuts to kids under 4 as they pose a choking risk for littles. Kirkland Signature Variety Snacking Nuts ($16.99)—Buy Here!
They’re crunchy, slightly salty, and delicious–everything you want in a cracker! With 8g of healthy fat and 3g of protein per serving, throw a few handfuls into a reusable snack bag and you're sure to satisfy any hangry child. Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers ($12.99)—Buy Here!
Aren’t all kids obsessed with snacks you can unfurl? Made from dried fruits and black carrot extract, these fruit rolls contain no added sugar and have a similar texture to fruit leather. BEAR Fruit Rolls ($9.99)—Buy Here!
These naturally-sweetened dried grapes are perfect for lunchboxes! Not only are raisins rich in fiber and antioxidants but they contain brain-supporting iron, too. Sun-Maid Raisins ($12.49)—Buy here!
Did you know that Cheerios are an excellent source of iron? This whole-grain snack contains more than 12 mg of iron per serving! Served with Greek yogurt or milk, Cheerios make a great snack or breakfast. Cheerios ($9.99)—Buy here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Repeat after me: Getaways with young kids are not a vacation, they’re a trip. Now that you’ve set the right expectations, check out these baby travel hacks that will make your trip a little less work and a lot more enjoyable for you and everyone else involved. Whether you’re flying with a baby to an all-inclusive or taking a road trip, these are the keys to a good getaway.
photo: iStock
1. Plan activities.
For older babies who are active and stay up for longer stretches, plan simple activities to pass the time and keep them engaged. One idea: Bring a water bottle filled with pom-poms for your little one to take out and put back in. You can also bring interactive books to hold your babe’s attention.
2. Ship diapers and wipes to your destination.
You have enough stuff to squeeze into suitcases. Use a service like Amazon to send diapers and wipes ahead of time to your destination, whether it’s grandma’s for the holidays or somewhere tropical. If you’re staying at a hotel, ask them if they’ll accept deliveries prior to your arrival.
3. Nurse or feed your baby during takeoff.
This is an important one. To help your little one deal with pressure changes in the cabin during takeoff (and landing!) that could make them uncomfortable, nurse or give your baby a bottle at that time. The sucking distracts your child and alleviates much of the discomfort.
4. Request a portable crib in your hotel reservation.
Most hotels will offer a portable crib at no extra cost. Request it in your reservation, so you can make other arrangements if the hotel informs you they can’t provide it. Pro tip: Bring your own crib sheets with you. They won’t take up much space in your luggage and will be soft and smell familiar to help your child drift off to sleep in their new location.
photo: iStock
5. Baby-wear to keep hands free.
Definitely bring your baby carrier or wrap. This frees up your hands for carrying luggage and other important items, like handing your ID and boarding pass to TSA. Plus, being close to you will likely keep your baby calm and happy in unfamiliar, sometimes stressful, environments. If you’re traveling by car, keep your wrap on or your carrier easily accessible, like on the floor right by your baby’s car seat, so it’s quick and easy to put on at every stop.
6. Wear a badge to hold your ID, ticket, and baby’s birth certificate.
You know those clear name-card badge holders they distribute at conferences, with a lanyard? Use one of those to hold your license, boarding pass, and baby’s birth certificate. No digging through your purse or running the risk of it falling out of your pocket. Simple, accessible, and no fuss.
7. Simplify the car seat situation.
If you’re flying, you can usually check your car seat at the ticketing desk for no charge (call ahead to confirm with your airline). Make sure they put a plastic bag over it (you can also purchase a sturdy bag for your car seat online). Or, if you want to eliminate the hassle of bringing it with you, arrange to include a car seat in your rental car. If you’re taking ride-sharing services, check their app to see if they offer cars with car seats in that area.
8. Pack odor-blocking diaper sacks.
A blow-out at 30,000 feet or in the middle of the desert with no trashcan in sight doesn’t have to be a total disaster. Pack Arm & Hammer diaper dispenser bags or even just plastic grocery bags to mask the smell of the dirty diaper. Nobody wants to lug a stinky diaper around or assault others’ noses, but at least this will make it a little more pleasant.
9. Pack a baby essentials kit.
Keep a pacifier, wipes, sanitizing wipes, and other essentials easily accessible, in your purse or diaper bag. This goes for flights and road trips. When there’s a mess or a howling baby, you’ll want to access these items as quickly as possible.
iStock
10. Bring snacks—for baby and you. Pack simple, low-mess snacks for your baby, like puffs or pouches. And it’s important for you to stay fed as well. Pack protein-filled snacks to keep you energized during your travels and a decadent treat as well. If drama ensues, you’re going to want the good stuff to help you through it.
11. Keep extra clothes in your carry-on bag.
Keep an extra outfit for baby and a shirt for you in your carry-on or diaper bag for air and car travel. The goal is to keep it easily accessible so when a blowout, spit-up, or other potentially outfit-ruining scenarios happen, you can solve it without having to wait for landing and checked baggage retrieval.
12. Think location, location, location for the hotel room.
When you book your hotel room, ask for it to be away from the elevators, pool, and vending/ice machines. While you can’t control if the hotel room is perfectly noise-free, choosing your room carefully will help make it a quiet space.
iStock
13. Pack a sound machine to help baby sleep.
Increase the quiet factor in your room by bringing a small, portable sound machine with you to mask noise from other rooms. Don’t want to haul something else with you? Download free white noise or wave sounds to play from your phone or tablet.
14. Do a thorough check of the hotel and car before leaving.
This is one of those tips for traveling with a baby that you’ll thank us for later. Before checking out or returning the rental car, look under beds, under seats, the trunk, and glove compartment, because something will likely be left there. And always double-check that your baby’s favorite lovey and stuffie is with you at every transition and location change.
Make sure to capture all the travel moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Trader Joe’s knows how to do reusable grocery bags, and these mini canvas totes are the newest offering for all you addicts out there. The mini version of the standard canvas shopping bag appeared last week and has been sold out at stores pretty much since they arrived. They cost just $2.99 each and come in yellow, red, blue, and green.
If you happen to have your mini-me with you while shopping, you can easily throw a few into the pint-size shopping carts offered at some stores for kids to push around. And now that we think about it, hey’d make the cutest Halloween costume if you are one of those plan-ahead people. Just find a Hawaiian shirt and your little one is all set.
The totes have two exterior pockets and are stitched with the Trader Joe’s logo. The bottom of the bag expands, and it’s surprisingly roomy, even fitting a laptop. They’re the ideal size for bringing your lunch to work, and we know that teachers would love them for an end-of-the-year gift stuffed with snacks, a plant, and a gift card.
This mom even filled it up with baby supplies as an extra diaper bag to keep in her car:
Now is a great time of year to shop at Trader Joe’s as all the spring items are starting to hit the shelves. Recently spotted were some too-cute peas and carrots sour gummy candies (immediate addition to the Easter baskets), candy-coated dark chocolate almonds (ditto), and cheery lemon animal crackers. Happy shopping!
You’ve made it through the dizzying first month (or so) with your baby. Congratulations are in order! Now you’re itching to get out and explore the city again. Only this time, you’ll be packing a stroller, a well-stocked diaper bag, and your proud new-parent badge. If you’re wondering what are the best things to do in Seattle with a baby, you’ve come to the right place.
From classes to experiences to all the great outdoor adventures you can find in the PNW, you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from in between nap times. Before your baby turns one (trust us, that happens much faster than you think) check these 25 things to do with a baby in Seattle off your baby bucket list.
iStock
1. Go Out to Dinner
Remember when the hardest part of going out to dinner was choosing the restaurant? Sure, it’s harder to eat out with your parenting partner now that baby has arrived, but we’re firm believers in going when baby is young (and can still sleep through at least one course of the meal). When baby’s older, try one of these family restaurants that cater to kids.
2. Find Stroller-Friendly Walking Trails & Hikes
There’s just something about taking a stroll around Green Lake or along Alki Beach on a sunny day that makes it nearly irresistible. Now that baby’s here, be sure to introduce them to your favorite walking trails for wheels and easy hikes while they’re still content to sit and take it all in. Just remember, even if you don’t have a special frame pack for baby, you can still find a trail and get outdoors.
Insider Tip: Groups like Hike it Baby have invaluable suggestions and parent meet-ups that make getting outside with baby easy.
Even if baby isn’t “oohing” and “ahhing” at all the animals you’ll see at Woodland Park Zoo, spend a day there anyway. Sunshine, wide walking paths, and plenty of grassy areas where your cutie can crawl around make this a baby must-do. Don’t forget to head to Zoomazium for some indoor exploration, if it’s a rainy day or you need a change of scenery.
While your little bundle may not be ready to take in local museum exhibits (no matter how fascinating they are), they are plenty of Seattle-area museums that are baby-friendly. Seattle Children’s Museum tops our list, and not just because it’s got a baby-friendly play area and the best bathrooms this side of the Cascades. Nearby PacSci, with its soft toddler playspace, is another option, as is Chihuly Garden & Glass. While you might not think a museum full of breakables screams baby-friendly, we beg to differ. Take them while they’re still stroller-bound and you’ll see why.
Sure they can’t run the bases after the game yet, and as far as your baby is concerned, the 7th inning stretch should always be accompanied by a big yawn and a long nap. But bringing your little one to see the Mariners play is a guaranteed win during the first year. Snap pics, enjoy ballpark food, and definitely bring your sunscreen to make the trip successful.
Drop in to hear stories for babies at your local King County Library branch, pretty much any day of the week. Not only is it a great way to spend time with your little one, it’s also a change to meet other parents who are in the same stage as you are. While you’re at it, sign baby up for a library card—after all, it’s never too early.
Sometimes just getting to where you’re going with baby in the car can be tough. Bypass the drive-time headache by riding the ferry. Park the car and hit the deck where baby can explore, with or without a stroller. You’ll get where you need to be and baby will be happy. That’s what we call a win-win for you both.
8. Try a Swim Class
Spend time in the water with baby at a local parent/baby swim class. Not sure where to start? Get our suggestions on the best baby swim classes in Seattle before you dive in.
9. Attend a Nearby Play & Learn Program
Your baby totally digs toys but isn’t quite ready for the rough and tumble business of Seattle’s indoor play gyms. Sometimes something new is what it takes to keep baby entertained. Take your newest addition to a Kaleidoscope Play & Learn session to socialize and play with toys that aren’t already found in baby’s room. We love this free community program that’s taught in many languages.
10. Sit for a Tiny Tots Concert
Sure your kiddo wouldn’t make it through a Seattle Symphony concert, no matter how soothing those violins can be. That’s why there’s Tiny Tots, specific concerts geared toward families with kids under five. Stories, songs, and games that only take 30 minutes? That’s the sound of a great day with baby to us.
When you have a baby, it’s easy to get focused on the little things. Little toes. Little fingers. Little smiles. That’s one of the things parents love about Limber Yoga’s baby and parent yoga class. It’s all about finding peace in the little things and taking a breather when you need one. Currently the class meets once a week on Tuesdays, and registration is required.
Meet other parents and introduce your little bundle to musical instruments at any number of local Seattle music classes for babies. Start with Sunshine Music Together classes, for kids ages 0-5, that offered all over the city, from Queen Anne to West Seattle to Redmond. WeBop Music classes at Seattle JazzED is another program that caters to kids (starting at 8 months). But if free and loose is more your speed, try dropping in at Baby Jam, a long-running Seattle class that meets for two different sessions on Monday mornings.
15. Bike the Burke-Gilman Trail
The fact that you can bike for miles without having to cross the street is one of the Burke’s biggest perks. Put baby in the bike seat or trailer and get pedaling. If you need to feed or change baby during your ride, plan to make a pit stop at these fantastic spots along the trail.
Lots of stroller-friendly paths and a conservatory, too. These are just a few of the things that make Volunteer Park a great place to take baby. Plus, visiting the on-site Asian Art Museum is another easy activity to enjoy when you’ve got baby with you. Plenty to see, not touch, and spaces where you can sit quietly together to take it all in.
18. Go Wild at ZooTunes
It doesn’t get more family-friendly than BECU’s ZooTunes during the summer months. Grab a seat near the back, spread out a picnic blanket, bring headphones to cover baby’s ears, and enjoy the show. The best part? Concerts are over by 8:30 p.m., so everyone can get home to get plenty of rest.
19. Watch the Ships at Ballard Locks
The Ballard Locks is more than just fish ladders and boats. In fact, it’s a wonderful place to explore with little ones, whether you’re baby-wearing or pushing a stroller. Watch spawning fish, or boats making their way from freshwater lakes to the saltwater Sound and back again. Or check out the Carl S. Jr. Botanical Garden, one of the Locks’ hidden gems.
20. See Art at Olympic Sculpture Park
The Olympic Sculpture Park is another fantastic place to stroll with your cutie. Nine acres of green space and larger-than-life art along the waterfront make this a great day destination. Still feeling adventurous? Stroller down the street and take baby to the Seattle Aquarium to gawk at all the fish and adorable sea otters.
21. Wander Through a Garden
If a little peace and quiet is what you’re after (show us a new parent that isn’t), there’s no better place to find it than at one of Seattle’s beautiful gardens. If you ask us, the best part of each of these is that they’re pretty amazing to visit year-round. Spring brings out the bulbs and cherry blossoms, along with summer comes dazzling colors, and even fall has us hooked with rhoddies and the changing leaves.
Take your wee one to hear their first concert. From library concerts to outdoor summer fests headlined by some of Seattle’s best kindie rockers, there are plenty of baby-friendly concerts in the city. But may we suggest the Mount Baker Kindiependent Rock series to start.
Start ’em young is our philosophy. Especially when it comes to kids and super cute farm animals. Spending a morning at Kelsey Creek Farm in Bellevue or at Farrell-McWhirter over in Redmond is always worth the bridge crossing. But if you want to stay close to home, visit the animals at the Woodland Park Zoo petting area starting in early May.
Fantastic views and lots to do and see is what makes this downtown trek worth it. Even babies will enjoy a ride on the Great Wheel or a chance to take a boat tour around Elliott Bay. The Pike Place Market isn’t too far uphill from the waterfront, and although it’s a bit crowded for strollers on a weekend, if you go on a weekday you can pick up fresh fish and produce to make a healthy meal when you get home.
Make sure to capture all your moments exploring the city—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
While it feels a lot like the cold weather isn’t going anywhere soon (because, well, it technically is still winter), your babe’s skin will always need TLC. We’re talking the art of baby skincare, and with chilly weather, it’s just as important to focus on as it is during the summer. Of course, it’s a little different when the seasons change. A combination of dry indoor heat, cold air, low humidity levels, and harsh winter wind creates the perfect environment for your babe’s skin to need extra moisture. As with all thing baby-related, there are an astounding amount of product options, and naturally, you’re looking for the best baby lotions available. That’s where we come in.
Whether you’re into all-natural, ultra-sensitive skin formulas, rich creams, or lightweight lotions, we’ve got you covered. Actually, we’ve got your baby covered. From their fuzzy little heads to their sweet toes, you’ll be able to help protect them all though the season. Why use a baby lotion? Because they help replenish and retain their skin’s moisture level. That’s important year-round, obviously, but especially in the fall and winter. Protecting your baby’s skin barrier from birth with regular moisturizing is even linked to preventing food allergies. So keep a bottle of one of our best baby lotion picks upstairs, downstairs, and in your diaper bag. You won’t want to be without them.
Tubby Todd All Over Ointment
Tubby Todd
A balm for everything! Tubby Todd's All Over Ointment is a rich, creamy formula made from plant-based ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, jojoba esters, and camellia leaf extract to naturally moisturize and soothe sensitive skin. It can be used for newborns and up and is available in fragrance-free or gentle rosemary lavender scent.
Noodle & Boo Super Soft Lotion is light and silky, plus it includes sweet almond oil and vitamins E and C while a protective layer of antioxidants shield your baby's delicate skin from the elements. It's plant-based and mild enough for newborns.
Aveeno is a household name, so you know this is a solid choice in a sea of baby lotion options. Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Body Lotion with natural colloidal oatmeal features a nourishing, non-greasy formula that helps protect your little one's delicate skin and moisturizes for a full 24 hours and helps prevent and temporarily protect chafed, chapped, or cracked skin.
Have you noticed that your baby's face tends to get drier than the rest of their body? Just like adults, facial skin is so sensitive, so this face cream is developed specifically for their little noses (and cheeks and chins...you get it). This deeply hydrating, yet fast-absorbing cream is loaded with superfood oils that nourish and soothe dry, sensitive skin with 72-hour hydration. It's great for babies and sensitive skinned adults, too.
Formulated with 3 essential ceramides to reinforce baby's skin barrier, hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's moisture, and Vitamin E to soothe, this lightweight lotion locks in moisture. Accepted by the National Eczema Association, so you can feel good about using it on your sweet babe's bod.
This lightweight, silky formula not only moisturizes but also helps restore skin's natural barrier to keep irritants out and dryness away. It provides 96 hours of hydration thanks to the plant-based blend of marine algae, coconut water, jojoba oil, and squalane.
Coconut oil is excellent for skin, but can be super greasy. Bubbsi's body cream is non-greasy, and also includes she butter and vitamin E that melts into baby's skin to absorb quickly and soften immediately. 98% naturally-derived and adorable packaging are icing on the coconut oil cake.
You'll want to use this one, yourself—trust us. Created by Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade, this multi-use all over balm uses mango butter, jojoba oil, and calendula flower to moisturize and protect delicate skin. You can also use it on your cuticles, lips, heels, and elbows.
Cetaphil Baby Daily Lotion is formulated with vitamin E and sweet almond oil along with sunflower seed oil and unsaturated acids that work together to soften skin for a full 24 hours.
Eucerin fragrance-free baby lotion is gentle enough to use every day and this sensitive skin baby lotion is enriched with soothing ingredients. Plus, the pump style makes it super convenient.
Gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, Pipette Baby Lotion is a fragrance-free moisturizing superhero you can use every day, all over. It restores the moisture balance of your baby’s skin with essential fatty acids, ceramides, and plant-derived squalane (a version of an ultra-hydrating molecule naturally found in babies’ protective vernix at birth).
Junior’s Bedtime Lotion was specially developed to keep your little one calm, relaxed, and ready for bed. It's gentle on sensitive skin, and contains Vitamin E oils to leave them as soft as they're meant to be.
Derived from natural ingredients, the Mushie formula protects and hydrates dry, delicate skin while leaving your little one's skin super soft from head to toe. The fresh Lavender scent adds a floral note to your moisturizing routine and leaves skin feeling naturally dewy. Also available in green lemon scented.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Look at any book, scroll any website, and consult any friend, and you’ll get a million different ideas of what ‘postpartum essentials’ really means. But, since we’re all moms around here in different seasons of motherhood, we’ve got the real mom lowdown on the postpartum essentials we really couldn’t do without. And we’ve even included some prenatal favorites to keep you going as you head toward the next stage of your mom journey.
Of course, anything you see on this list (or any others, really) shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. Always run things by your healthcare provider if you have any questions. That said, these postpartum goodies are some of the most tried-and-true out there. From nursing camis that save you some laundry time to cooling pads that soothe your healing body and everything in between, we’ve put together our faves for keeping comfortable, managing pain, taking care of yourself, and even staying organized while you get to know your newest family member. (There are even some great gifts for new moms on this list, so if you’re looking for products to really help out the new mom in your life, we’ve got you covered!).
Postpartum Essentials
Frida Mom Instant Ice Maxi Pads
Frida Mom on Amazon
Looking for some major relief? These 2-in-1 cooling and absorbent maxi pads are made with witch hazel (no funky chemicals here) and instantly cool and soothe sensitive bodies following delivery. They're full-coverage, too, to minimize leaks!
Ingrid & Isabel's seamless cooling bra features an innovative technical fabric with cooling minerals to wick away moisture and keep you feeling cool and dry. It includes drop-down cups and openings for pump flanges, plus it's compatible with wearable pumps. It's your 3-in-1 postpartum bra: support, nursing, and pumping-ready! Available in black and sand.
Not all prenatals are created equal. The Beli Women Prenatal is designed for when you're hoping to conceive, during all three trimesters, and the early months of motherhood. It's gentle on your tummy, too. What other prenatal does it all? Beli also has a subscription option, so it's one less thing you have to think about every month.
Extra-soothing and can help speed up recovery, this sitz bath soak is extra-gentle. Made with organic coconut oil, organic sweet almond oil, therapeutic lavender, and grapefruit essential oils to deeply hydrate while the fine-grain salt dissolves extra fast so you don't have to wait to relax.
Listen, new moms. It's vital that you stay hydrated. Of course, that's always true, but it's especially easy to forget when you're nursing, running on less sleep, and healing from labor and delivery. Mom Fuel is formulated for moms, it's caffiene-free and includes lactation support, all in an on-the-go packet. Mix it with a little extra water if you prefer a milder flavor.
Bodily really knocked it out of the park with this box. The kit contains 12 research-backed products, including goodies for hospital and home, so you can be covered from the big day to every moment of your healing journey. The Bodily Belly Band, nursing pads, cozy socks, nipple gel pads, mesh undies, and a lot more. There's also the Care for Birth Box if you don't need the Belly Band.
The Poppy Diaper Purse is a modern and minimalist take on the diaper bag. It replaces the bulky and big diaper bags that can be a huge pain and instead, includes a mini diaper bag with a dual-purpose design. Divided into two sections, the Poppy has a dedicated baby diaper compartment and a personal purse compartment, too. Multiple zippered and open pocket options, including an elastic pocket for baby wipes! Available in 4 colors, and fun straps (sold separately) to customize yours.
If you want, or need, to leave the house during your postpartum recovery, your healing regimen still can't take a backseat. This handy little portable bidet doesn't look like one, but works to effectively keep your postpartum hygiene in check no matter where you are. They also made sure the design mitigates leaks, because that's pretty much the last thing you need right now.
Super soft, belly hugging (read: supportive!) underwear with a dual-layer, 360° pocket design to securely hold ice or heat therapy between the legs, at the site of c-section, and around the back where postpartum recovering bodies need it most. Available in multiple sizes and bundle options (remember what we said about laundry?).
The name of the postpartum game is 'Support' (both physically and mentally), so having a compression wrap like this one on-hand is a great idea. You can adjust it to the level you prefer and wearing a wrap can help speed up your healing!
A super-soft, easy-fit pajama top with lift up nursing access, a comfy over bump pajama bottoms with a tapered leg, a maternity and nursing nightie with snaps at the front for easy nursing and skin-to-skin snuggles, and a cozy matching robe to keep you warm, covered up when you want to be, and excellent for busy hospitals or at home when you have visitors.
A yoga ball specifically designed to offer relief from back, pelvic, pubic, and round ligament pain, and may promote optimal fetal positioning for a smoother delivery. It's sturdy (max weight of 440lbs.) and is extra-thick to make sure you're totally supported. It's also great for use during postpartum recovery.
You can't beat this level of versatility! The ruched silhouette shows off your growing bump and can be worn all through pregnancy and postpartum. Add a denim jacket, sneakers, a blazer...with multiple colors to choose from, you might not want to wear anything else for a long time.
If there's going to be a prenatal vitamin in our list, and of course there is, it better be the best. SNAP Supplements Prenatal Vitamins make it easy to take care of your growing babe and yourself. Along with 15 vitamins and minerals with 100% daily value, they included ingredients to help prevent and alleviate nausea, so you can actually handle taking them. If you've been dealing with upset belly from prenatals, SNAP has you covered.
Bio-Oil is one of the most popular prenatal (and postpartum, and whenever...) products out there. Why? Because it's super effective at moisturizing, helping your skin stay elastic and not itchy as your bump grows, and soothes it after delivery.
Whether you're struggling to sleep or just looking for some extra support, this pillow will be a major favorite. It's also awesome for sitting up in bed and reading, nursing, or even using a corner as a lap desk. Available in multiple colors and prints.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Got extra storage space? We’ve got a side job for you
You love your kids, but let’s be honest: They’re not the best bosses. So if you want a job that doesn’t involve picking up toys or tiptoeing around tantrums, there are plenty of gigs out there that’ll earn you extra cash while letting you keep “Mom” or “Dad” as Job Number One. So, whether you want to put your style sense to work, hang with a furry friend, or throw a few more items in your shopping cart, here are the best side jobs for moms right now.
Do Other People's Laundry
iStock
If the idea of more clothes to wash doesn't stress you out, working with LaundryCare—a nationwide company that will pay you to do other people's laundry—might be your perfect side gig. All you need to do is supply the washer & dryer, plus the soap and fabric softener, and the company will pay you by the bag to wash and deliver to homes in your neighborhood.
What it pays: According to the site, laundry washers can get paid about $20 per bag of laundry.
Do you have dozens of beautifully arranged Pinterest boards? Do you follow current lifestyle, food, and decor trends? Offering up your services as a Pinterest manager for a company might be for you. Instead of creating pins for your boards, you'll create and manage pins to boost engagement for businesses. You will need to analyze data, report on trends, prompt customer engagement, and have knowledge of how Pinterest works, so be sure you know how to do those things before reaching out to clients.
What it pays: As a freelancer, you can charge what you want based on your skills, and according to Zip Recruiter, a WFH Pinterest manager can make up to $67K a year.
Where to apply: Check job sites like Zip Recruiter, Upwork, and LinkedIn for leads.
Advertise On Your Car
Wrapify
If you don't mind driving a rolling advertisement (and your kids won't die of embarrassment when you pick them up from school with a car that screams, say, "Fillows Creme Filled Cereal"), you can get paid for wrapping your car in ads. With Wrapify, you can get paid $450 a month to just go about your everyday business—you know, drive the kids to school, drive to soccer games, drive to parent meetings, etc.—while your car is "wrapped" in advertisements. You'll make the most money with a "full wrap" (meaning your car's whole exterior is an ad) or opt for just the doors and windows.
To qualify, you need to pass a basic background check and drive a 2010 or newer; Coupe, Sedan, SUV, pickup truck, or minivan without significant body/paint damage.
What it pays: $264-$452 for a "full" wrap; $196-$280 for a "partial" wrap; $181-280 for a "lite" wrap.
Are you a computer whiz and want to teach kids a thing or two about coding? Or maybe you're a Potterhead and want to design a spell-making class fit for Harry or Hermione? The only prerequisite to being an Outschool teacher is that you have expertise in something that may be of interest to kids and teens. It's free to list or teach a class—you just have to be willing to give Outschool 30% of what you make through enrollment (you can set the class cost at whatever you deem fit).
Note: If you've got a teaching credential, the Web is your oyster. Check Teachaway for a comprehensive list of online teaching jobs.
What it pays: About $50 per hour, according to Outschool (but it can be more or less, depending on how many students enroll and what you charge for the class).
You know that feeling of freedom you get at the grocery store alone? Turn that glorious solo time into pocket cash by becoming an on-demand grocery shopper for companies like Instacart and DoorDash. The perks? Flexible hours (work whenever you have free time), a fairly easy side job for moms, and direct deposit of your earnings. To be eligible, you need to have a car, a valid driver's license (and insurance), and be able to lift between 30-40 pounds without help.
What it pays: About $15 an hour, according to Indeed.com.
Ready for The Sleepover's big comeback? After two years of social distancing, maybe now's the time to get a gig organizing the coolest slumber soirees ever! Companies like Elite Teepees will provide you with all the supplies and information needed to license its brand and start organizing teepee sleepovers (forget simple sleeping bags on the floor; these sleepovers are in a league of their own!). Of course, any franchise comes with startup costs—starting an Elite Teepee business takes an initial investment of up to $7,500—but you'll have the potential to earn thousands more, depending on how much you put into it.
What it pays: Anywhere from $26,000 to $54,000 as a part-time business, according to the Elite Teepees website.
Got some extra room in your attic or garage? Don't leave it empty! People are willing to rent those corners and crawl spaces to store their overflow of stuff. Neighbor.com lets you list your garage, driveway, or basement exclusively to store other people's things (like their cars, storage boxes, bikes, etc.). Listing your space is free; Just set a price, post some pics, and then wait for people to e-mail you. It's easy money, especially if you've got an extra parking spot in a city where parking is sparse.
If you're nervous about being a Lyft or Uber driver because you don't want to pick up strangers and drive who-knows-where, how about letting someone else do the driving and just getting paid to supply them with the car? Sites like Turo or Hyrecar let you list your car or truck for other people to rent (it's like Airbnb for cars). You lay the ground rules for what you do and don't accept (no dogs, smoking, etc.), set a calendar for when your car is available, and wait for prospective renters to roll in (Note: HyreCar works specifically with rideshare and delivery drivers, while Turo works with tourists and those looking to test out specific car brands). It's a great option if you've got a second car that's just gathering dust in the garage.
Both Turo and Hyrecar's fees include insurance (you pick the level of protection)—and drivers also must have insurance (their own or a policy offered by the company), so you don't have to worry about your car getting damaged while someone else is driving it.
Note: If you've got a Jeep Wrangler or a Tesla, you've got the potential to make big bucks, as those are two of the most popular cars to rent from Turo!
What you can make: According to Turo, car owners can make an average of $706 per month, assuming their car is rented at least 12 days per month; meanwhile, Hyrecar claims you can make up to $1,200 a month to Uber, Lyft or delivery drivers (that's assuming your car is being rented for most of the month).
You don't have to sell the clothes off your back, but how about the clothes in your closet? If you've got cool outfits just collecting dust, now's the time to unload! Just send your unwanted threads to secondhand clothing companies like Poshmark, Crossroads, and Thredup, and they'll pick and choose what's good enough to sell (they can send back your clothes or donate the things they don't choose). The company gets a piece of your sale, but you won't have to do all the hard stuff like packaging and sending out goods to the customers.
What it pays: Varies, but more if you've got designer duds to sell—a Gucci handbag, for instance, will get you 90% of the listing price (about $286) on Thredup, whereas a pair of Old Navy jeans will only get you about 5% (that's about 55 cents in your pocket).
Are you good on the phone? Do you have the patience to engage with a not-so-cheerful caller? Companies use customer service agents for a variety of tasks, including answering customers' questions, making travel reservations, and providing tech support. All you need is a phone line and good internet access.
What it pays: $19/hour or about $39,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.
Where to apply: Browse customer service jobs on Indeed or Remote. Amazon also has remote customer service job openings—check them out here.
Want to get rid of your CD or DVD collection? Got an old cell phone or video game console you've long since abandoned? Time to unload!
For CDs, DVDs, and video games: Try sites like Decluttr or Eagle Saver, where you can sell your old DVDs and Blu-rays without having to worry about shipment costs or listing the items yourself.
For electronics: Decluttr buys cell phones, tablets, video game consoles, and textbooks (in addition to CDs and video games); and Amazon's trade-in program accepts things like cell phones, Kindle E-readers, tablets, video game equipment, and books. Amazon pays for the shipment costs and lists your item for you. You get paid in Amazon credit—or use your trade-in to upgrade to new Amazon devices.
What it pays: Varies, depending on what you're selling and how much you've got to sell. At Amazon, for instance, you'll be paid via an Amazon gift card equalling the appraised value of your device (plus you may get credit toward a new, upgraded device).
If you have a background in writing and editing, there's a huge demand for written content all over the web. Whether you want to write about your personal experiences or be assigned topics as needed by the publication, look for jobs at job sites like Indeed and Remote or on media-specific sites like Mediabistro.
What it pays: Varies by publication
Where to apply: Browse listings for "Writer" or "Freelance writer" on Flexjobs, Mediabistro, Indeed, and Remote, or look under the "Jobs" sections of your favorite websites.
Are you a fast typer? Use your skills for extra income! Sign up to be a transcriptionist at TranscribeMe!, which will pay you to transcribe audio clips. You can work as little as an hour or two—whenever you've got the time. It's monotonous work but an easy job.
You don't need to know another language to teach English, and most online ESL companies provide complete lesson plans that make your job easy. All you need to do is apply, sign on, and start connecting with kids from around the world. Note: This is a great gig if you're looking for something to do when your kids are asleep, since your students may be in a different time zone.
If you've ever used Amazon Prime Now, you know the wonder of needing a pack of diapers RIGHT NOW and receiving them on your doorstep in just minutes. The magic behind the on-demand service? Drivers who are willing to pick up your orders and get them to you pronto. It's good for the drivers, too, who can work when they want (turn on the app and start taking orders). As for pay, drivers get paid depending on which jobs they take, with more urgent items (those that need to be delivered in an hour or less) offering the highest pay. The only catch? You've got to live near an Amazon warehouse to get the gig. Find participating cities here.
If you've always wanted to write the Great American Novel (or maybe just a cute bedtime story). Amazon makes it easy to do it on your own. Just get writing, and then log onto Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing to upload your book. The site will convert your creation to an ebook and/or have it available as a printed book. You don't have to pay a cent! Every book is printed only when ordered (so there's no need to prepay for books). You'll be a published author before you know it. The KDP site offers free tools to help you write, illustrate, and organize your masterpiece.
What it pays: It depends on the price and size of your book and whether it's in color or black and white—but according to the site's royalty calculator, a 200-page 6X9 book without color will get you $2.75 per copy sold if you set the book price at $10 (which is, by the way, way better than the 10% royalty most mainstream publishers offer new authors).
Do you have a law degree? Are you a nurse or a doctor? Whether your know-how is in medicine, law, cars, or home improvement, cash in on your knowledge by answering questions for Justanswer.com. Anyone can apply to be an expert; you make money if your answer is voted the most helpful.
What it pays: Anywhere from $20 to $100 an hour (but that’s, of course, only if you’re giving the “best” answers… and lots of them).
Did you know you can burn 200 calories an hour just walking man's best friend? Go! Cancel your gym membership, and spend your mornings palling around with pooches. This is a perfect side job for moms who want to get out of the house, whether your kiddo comes along in a stroller or spends the morning at preschool.
Pssst: Want more than just a 20-minute Fido fix? Get yourself listed on Rover, and turn your home into a crash pad for pups (and maybe cats, too). You get paid by the day or hour, depending on the setup.
What it pays: Up to $25 an hour (or about $60 per day for pet-sitting)
If you're one of those stylish mamas who hasn't ditched the high heels and still carries a brand-name purse instead of a dirty diaper bag—Stitch Fix might be the perfect work-from-home job for you. Stitch Fix is a clothing delivery company that sends you personalized wardrobe choices based on your preferences, lifestyle, and price point (you fill out a questionnaire to determine these bits).
Behind this service, of course, is a team of work-from-home stylists who pull together the outfits, client by client. Stylists get a rundown of the customer, then scramble to find something fabulous. Stylists must commit to working 15 to 30 hours per week and be available for a remote training session.
What it pays: About $16 per hour according to Glassdoor.
Channel your inner artist and sell your goods online at sites like Etsy and Amazon Homemade. Both sites take a commission, with Etsy taking a 6.5% commission as well as a 20-cent listing fee, and Amazon taking a 15% cut and a $1 referral fee (this covers payment processing, marketing, seller support, and fraud protection).
What it pays: It depends on what you're making and how much of it you sell.
